Albania Endorses Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara

Albania has endorsed Morocco’s autonomy proposal for Western Sahara, recognizing it as a viable resolution to the dispute. This support was confirmed during a visit by Albania’s Foreign Minister, reflecting growing international backing for Morocco’s sovereignty. The discussions also included bilateral cooperation and Morocco’s initiatives for stability in Africa, culminating in Albania’s praise for Morocco’s internal reforms and support for its EU aspirations.

Albania has officially expressed its support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative concerning the Western Sahara, highlighting its significance as a credible foundation for resolving the regional dispute. This position was outlined in a joint declaration signed by Igli Hasani, Albania’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, and Nasser Bourita, Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, during Hasani’s official visit to Morocco.

The joint statement emphasizes Albania’s recognition of the Western Sahara issue’s importance to Morocco, as well as Morocco’s substantial efforts within the United Nations framework to achieve a mutually acceptable solution. Albania’s endorsement adds to the growing international backing for Morocco’s 2007 autonomy plan, which suggests considerable self-governance while maintaining Moroccan sovereignty.

Both ministers reiterated their support for the UN-led political process and affirmed their commitment to assisting Staffan De Mistura, the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, in seeking a peaceful resolution to the conflict in line with UN Security Council resolutions, particularly Resolution 2756 (2024).

Albania’s endorsement signifies a notable victory in Morocco’s diplomatic efforts regarding the Western Sahara dispute, bringing the total support to over 100 nations, including more than 20 within Europe. This shift in Albania’s stance follows its severance of ties with the Polisario Front’s self-declared “SADR” in 2004, marking a significant evolution in its foreign policy since recognizing it during the communist era in 1987.

In addition to the Western Sahara discussion, the talks encompassed various avenues for bilateral collaboration and regional issues. Albania expressed keen interest in the Atlantic initiatives spearheaded by King Mohammed VI, especially the upcoming initiative aimed at enhancing Sahel countries’ access to the Atlantic Ocean. The joint statement also acknowledged Morocco’s crucial role in promoting stability and development across Africa.

Further, Morocco has lifted visa requirements for Albanian citizens traveling for short stays to foster tourism and interpersonal exchanges. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to global peace, stability, and security, emphasizing the necessity of peaceful conflict resolution and the respect for territorial integrity.

The Albanian minister commended the extensive reforms enacted in Morocco over the last two decades under King Mohammed VI’s leadership, including the New Development Model. In response, Bourita conveyed Morocco’s support for Albania’s aspirations to join the European Union and the comprehensive reforms undertaken by the Albanian government to achieve this goal.

The meeting concluded with both ministers agreeing to enhance consultations and coordination within international organizations and to bolster economic, trade, and cultural cooperation between their countries.

In conclusion, Albania’s formal endorsement of Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara marks a significant shift in its foreign relations, reflecting a broader international trend of support for Morocco’s stance. The bilateral discussions also paved the way for increased cooperation in various sectors, reinforcing both nations’ commitment to regional stability and global peace. With a focus on mutual development, Albania and Morocco are poised to strengthen their diplomatic ties further.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com